From the Greek thaliktron, a name used to describe a plant with divided leaves, possibly of the same family (Ranuncalaceae). Meadow rue. A genus of 150 species of hardy perennials, herbaceous plants, mainly from north temperate regions but also represented in tropical South America, tropical Africa and South Africa. Those cultivated have elegant, fern-like foliage and dainty flowers. They are most effective when planted in bold groups.

Cultivation Thalictrums will grow in almost any soil, preferably of reasonable depth, but including those that contain much chalk, provided they do not bake dry. Plant them in full sun or dappled shade. Propagation is by seed or by division in the spring.